New Delhi: More than 2,000 criminal cases have been filed in connection with encroachment on Waqf properties by Waqf mafias and strict action taken...

New Delhi: More than 2,000 criminal cases have been filed in connection with encroachment on Waqf properties by Waqf mafias and strict action taken against many sitting at top posts in Waqf boards in last three years, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said today. Addressing the 76th meeting of Central Waqf Council here, Mr Naqvi said some of the complaints have been forwarded to the CBI. He said several Waqf properties have been under the clutches of powerful Waqf mafias due to criminal conspiracy between them and some Waqf boards. 'Encroachment on Waqf properties as well as Enemy Properties have come to light during our campaign launched to free these properties from the clutches of Waqf mafias,' the Minister informed. He said Waqf properties were being utilised for socio, economic and educational empowerment of the needy of the society under the Narendra Modi-led government after making these properties free from encroachment. Various projects related to educational, social and skill development are being initiated on these properties, he added. 'We are making efforts to ensure that all the Waqf boards and their records across the country are made digital. The Ministry has been providing all possible help to the state Waqf boards. Computerisation of Waqf boards and their properties will help in ensuring transparency,” Mr Naqvi said. He added that there were about 5,12,556 registered and non-registered Waqf properties across the country and the number might increase after computerisation. He also informed that a one-man “Board of Adjudication” at the Central level was established under the chairmanship of retired Supreme Court judge to deal with complaints and disputes regarding Waqf properties. Moreover, three-member tribunals are being established in the states and about 21 have established these tribunals, he informed. Stating that the government’s commitment was development for all, Mr Naqvi said the Ministry has been working towards socio-economic-educational empowerment of all notified Minorities - Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Sikh, Parsi and Jain. Mr Naqvi said measures taken by the Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for socio-economic-educational progress of Minorities during the last three years was a reflection of “empowerment without appeasement” policy.